The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has called for greater collaboration with media practitioners to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.
The appeal was made by the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, during a one-day dialogue with media practitioners held on Tuesday at Aenon Suites Hotel, GRA, Osogbo.
Speaking at the event, Babalola described the media as a critical stakeholder in the electoral process, stressing that its role extends beyond information dissemination to promoting issue-based campaigns, combating misinformation and disinformation, and strengthening public confidence in elections.
She said the dialogue was part of INEC's strategic engagement with key stakeholders ahead of the governorship poll, adding that the forum would provide an opportunity to discuss emerging electoral issues, effective communication strategies, and other measures aimed at ensuring a credible election.
The REC commended the Director of Voter Education and Publicity from INEC Headquarters, Abuja, alongside other senior officials, for attending the engagement, saying their presence reflected the Commission's commitment to enhancing voter education, effective communication, and stakeholder collaboration.
Babalola also expressed appreciation to media organisations across Osun State for their continued partnership with the Commission, noting that journalists have consistently played an indispensable role in promoting democratic values through objective reporting, public enlightenment, and the dissemination of timely and accurate electoral information.
"As we prepare for the Governorship Election, we count on the continued professionalism, fairness, and commitment of media practitioners in Osun State," she said, adding that responsible reportage would be crucial in ensuring that voters are adequately informed while maintaining a peaceful electoral environment.
She reaffirmed INEC's commitment to maintaining an open and constructive relationship with the media, emphasizing that the Commission welcomes feedback that will help improve its processes and deliver an election that meets the expectations of the people of Osun State and Nigerians.
Babalola urged participants to actively contribute to discussions during the dialogue, expressing confidence that the engagement would strengthen collaboration between the Commission and the media ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
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